The hottest chatter emerging from the rumor mill today is that Apple's next-generation iPhone 5S, which could debut within the next 8-12 weeks, may present a snazzy new fingerprint-scanning home button enclosed by a scratch-proof sapphire crystal glass.

Although rumors have persisted for some time now with regard to Apple introducing a fingerprint sensor in a subsequent iPhone refresh, this news from supply chain sources in Taiwan suggests the possibility of a much bigger effort on Apple's part to make the home button as revolutionary as possible.

Itís thought that using sapphire crystal, which has a hardness second only to diamond, will prevent the button from getting scratched and ruining the fingerprint sensor.

Apple, of course, has already demonstrated an appetite for sapphire crystal, as evidenced by the iPhone 5 camera lens on its back. Apple opted for sapphire crystal as a means to minimize scratches and preserve photo quality for users.

For now, sources speaking with Taiwanese website TechNew maintain the sapphire crystal touch home button is practically a sure-thing on the next iPhone refresh.

I would speculate that the home button still functions by physically pressing the button in. It would be weird for apple to eliminate an iconic button entirely. If it is touch it better be good. And flat too. I hate the indent.

I would speculate that the home button still functions by physically pressing the button in. It would be weird for apple to eliminate an iconic button entirely. If it is touch it better be good. And flat too. I hate the indent.

Well i'd see as a way to get rid of the passcode out of iOS and use a fingerprint to open the phone up in the app or homescreen. That takes out the bypassing glitches that Apple has been patching up with updates. Instead of trying open a app and then have to put in your passcode first. Be easier to have your thumb on the home button and goes directly to the app.